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Line 1: − + − + + + + + − Outside Eastern Europe, the zither is known as the instrument used for the memorable theme tune of the film ''The Third Man'', set in post-war [[Vienna]].+ − +
→top: Spelling, grammar, and general cleanup, typos fixed: world-wide → worldwide
[[Image:zither.png|thumb|right|250px|A zither]]A '''zither''' is a small musical string instrument, originating as a [[folk music]] instrument in Eastern [[Europe]].
[[Image:zither.png|thumb|right|250px|A zither]]A '''zither''' is a small stringed musical instrument that has its origins in the [[folk music]] traditions of central [[Europe]]. It is the favourite instrument of the mountainous regions of that area.
Like many string instruments, it has many variations and is generally considered to be a broad term for that genre of instrument.
Like many string instruments, it has many variations and is generally considered to be a broad term for that genre of instrument. It usually consists of a wooden box that works as a resonator, over which between 30 and 45 strings are stretched. Some of these strings pass over a fretted surface and are thereby able to be “played” to produce a tune. The rest of the strings are used as accompaniment. The melody strings are played with a plectrum attached to the player’s right thumb and “stopped” with the left thumb. Meanwhile, accompaniment strings are plucked by the three larger fingers of the right hand.
The instrument is played across one’s knees or on a table.
The zither reached a worldwide audience with Anton Karas’ score for the 1950 spy-thriller, set in [[Vienna]], ''The Third Man''. The main theme reached the top of the hit parade charts that year.
Someone who plays a zither is known as a zitherist.
Someone who plays a zither is known as a zitherist.
==External links==
==External links==
*[http://www.zithers-usa.com/History.htm The Concert Zither, a Brief History]
*[http://www.zithers-usa.com/History.htm The Concert Zither, a Brief History]
[[category:musical Instruments]]
[[Category:String Instruments]]